After-Summer, before-Winter, Autumn, Fall… whatever you might call it, it’s my favorite time of year. If you’re looking for the best places to visit on the East Coast during Fall, beware! The East Coast has so many options, you may need to take a month-long road trip just to hit all the spots. Actually that sounds like a good plan to me!
Asheville, North Carolina
Folks drive from all across the United States to visit Asheville in the Fall, and for good reason: Blue Ridge Mountain Range is one of the best displays of Fall leaves in the entire country! The Blue Ridge Parkway is 469 miles long, so you’ll have no shortage of sights to see on this trip.
This isn’t a road trip you want to take when you have a deadline, or somewhere you have to be. Take your time driving through the southern Appalachians, while enjoying the beauty of winding roads and colorful leaves. Due to hazardous road conditions, most facilities close November 1st, so visit in October if possible.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Whether you want mountainous or coastal views, Acadia National Park has you covered. With over 120 miles of hiking trails and storms rolling in over the Atlantic, your camera is going to get a workout. The Night Sky Festival takes place in September and offers breathtaking views of the night sky with absolutely zero light pollution. If you’ve never experienced the night sky without light pollution, it’s a must.
Average temperatures vary from 38*F to 55*F in October, so be sure to dress in layers and pack an extra blanket if you’re camping. October is when the Fall foliage peaks, making it the ideal time to visit. Stay up to date on foliage conditions by clicking here. Feeling adventurous? Hike the Precipice Trail while you’re in Maine. It’s one of the park’s most dangerous hikes, but the views are second to none.
Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina
With an average October temperature of 78 degrees, Sullivan’s Island is a different kind of Fall experience. You won’t be bundled up here, and you may not see as many fall leaves, but you can relax on the beach without a care in the world. Full of charm and beauty, this tiny 3-mile island is nothing like the great Appalachians – but it’s still worth a visit.
Sullivan Island’s motto is “come for the beach, stay for the seafood”, so you won’t be going hungry on this trip! You also won’t be bored: go kayaking, sailing, kiteboarding, or fishing. You could visit for a week and pick a new adventure each day!
Did you know? Edgar Allen Poe used Sullivan’s Island as the setting for his story, The Gold Bug.
Block Island, Rhode Island
If you’re into history and natural land preservation, Block Island should be added to your Bucket List immediately. I love the peacefulness Block Island promises, especially in the Fall and Winter when tourists leave the beaches quite deserted. This 3-by-7 mile island has no shortage of beaches; they’re everywhere you turn. There’s no shortage of things to do on Block Island: dining and shopping, arts and theatre, and tours of the island will keep you busy for a bit. Picture perfect: The North Lighthouse was built in 1867. If you visit, be sure to snap a photo!
Fairhaven, Massachusetts
Settled in 1695 and incorporated in 1812, this tiny town was founded on land purchased by English settlers. A small town rich in history, Fairhaven is a lovely seaside community nestled along the shores of Buzzards Bay. Victorian and colonial architecture top my list of reasons to visit Fairhaven any time of year, but the autumn leaves and cool air add to the allure to visit in the Fall.
Other Places to Visit During Fall
If you don’t live on the East Coast and just can’t make it this year, be sure to check out waterfalls to see in Oregon (if you’re a West Coaster), and things to do in Michigan (if you’re a Northerner).
